HELENA – With 361 candidates vying to run for public office, Secretary of State and Chief Elections Official Linda McCulloch has shifted her focus from candidate filing to the upcoming primary election, which falls on Tuesday, June 8.

“With a successful candidate filing period behind us, I’m focused on ensuring the integrity of the primary election,” McCulloch said. “We’re only a few months out, and many counties are still in dire need of election judges.”

“I want to remind folks that serving as an election judge is both fun and rewarding,” McCulloch continued. “All interested Montanans should contact their local elections office immediately. The mandatory trainings have already begun.”

Election judges are paid at least the federal minimum wage rate. Qualifications include, but are not limited to:

Must be registered to vote in the county and precinct of service

Must attend election judge certification training conducted by the county election administrator

May need to make a 2 year commitment and work multiple elections per year

May not be a candidate or relative of candidate in precinct where candidate name appears on ballot

“Election judges help ensure the state’s elections remain secure, fair, accurate and accessible to all voters,” McCulloch continued. “Election judges are appointed by the county at least 30 days before the primary election, so please don’t delay if you’re interested in fulfilling this important civic duty.”

For more information about becoming an election judge, including pay and requirements, interested parties should call or visit their local county elections office.